TPP #42: Are you backable?

Every founder dreams of being “backable.”

It’s that elusive quality that makes investors lean in, take notice, and ultimately say, “I’m in.”

But what does it really mean to be backable?

Here’s what investors are looking for:

1. A clear problem worth solving

Backable founders don’t just identify problems, they show why their problem is urgent, relevant, and big enough to matter.

2. A vision that inspires It’s not just about what you’re building now, it’s about where you’re headed. Investors want to see that your vision goes beyond today’s solution and taps into tomorrow’s opportunities.

3. The ability to rally a team

Backable founders attract people who believe in their vision and want to follow them. Investors want to see that you can inspire and lead a team to execute on your big ideas.

4. Traction that proves potential

Backable founders know that validation matters. Whether it’s user adoption, early revenue, or strategic partnerships, they can show proof that their idea works.

5. Confidence without ego

Investors want to trust you, but they also want to work with you. A backable founder inspires confidence while staying open to advice, feedback, and collaboration.

6. The ability to tell a compelling story

Numbers matter, but so does storytelling. A backable founder connects the dots, why this problem, why this solution, why now, and makes it impossible to look away.

So, how do you become backable?

It’s not about being perfect.

It’s about being prepared.

You don’t need to have it all figured out, but you do need to show that you’ve thought critically, taken steps to validate your business, and built a foundation for growth.

Investors back founders who make them believe in the problem, the solution, and the person leading the charge.

Ask yourself: what story are you telling, and what are you doing to prove it’s worth backing?

Until next time,

Diana